What is Hylenex?
Hylenex is a protein that has been genetically engineered.Hylenex can be used in conjunction with fluids that are injected into your body to treat dehydration. Hyaluronidase is also used to help your body absorb other medications you inject.Hylenex can also be used to make contrast dyes on your body more visible in certain types of x-rays or scanners.
Side effects of Hylenex
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy to Hylenex, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
If you experience any of these common Hylenex side effects, call your doctor immediately.
- You may experience swelling of your hands, feet, or other parts of the body.
- Pain, swelling, itching or redness at the site of injection.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report adverse reactions.
Warnings
Hylenex can cause serious drug interactions when used with certain medications.Inform your physician of all medications you are currently taking.Tell your doctor if, before receiving Hylenex, you are taking any of the following medications: furosemide, phenytoin, sedatives or anxiety medicines (such as Valium, Xanax, or Tranxene), aspirin, salicylates, corticotropin, ACTH, estrogens, or antihistamines (such as a cold medicine or allergy medication).Before using Hylenex, your doctor may conduct a skin test to determine if you're allergic to hyaluronidase.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to hyaluronidase, then Hylenex should not be used.Before you take the medication, your doctor may conduct a skin test in order to determine if you're allergic to hyaluronidase.
Hylenex can interact with some medicines that may cause harmful or unwanted effects. If you take any of these drugs, your doctor may have to alter your treatment plan.
- Furosemide (lasix)
- Phenytoin (dilantin)
- A sedative (such as valium, xanax, or ativan) or an anxiety medicine
- Aspirin and salicylates
- Cortisone or acth (corticotropin);
- Estrogens;
- Antihistamines (such as cold or allergy medicines)
Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to become pregnant.Hylenex may cause problems with breastfeeding. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
Similar/related drugs
Hyaluronidase, Amphadase, Vitrase, and Dexrazoxane
How to take Hylenex?
Hylenex can be injected into the muscle or other tissues in the body.Healthcare provider will administer the injection.Hylenex is not to be injected intravenously (into a vein).
What happens if I miss the dose?
You are unlikely to miss a dosage of Hylenex because you will be receiving it in a clinical environment.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poisoning and/or seek immediate medical care.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements, may also interact with hyaluronidase. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
